Information sought on Doonbeg deaths

Historian Eoin Shanahan is seeking information from people in Doonbeg and throughout West Clare in relation to the death of Resident Magistrate Alan Lendrum in Doonbeg on September 22, 1920.

Shortly afterwards, Willie Shanahan (Brigade Chief of Police, IRA West Clare) and Michael McNamara, Doonbeg, were killed by Crown forces in direct reprisal.According to Mr Shanahan, the manner of Lendrum’s death was sensationalised in many published accounts. The historian has addressed the mythology of the affair in an article published in the January–February 2010 issue of the History of Ireland magazine.“In the course of my research some fascinating new information has come to light,” Mr Shanahan explained.“With a view to the accurate recording of these events for future generations, I will be happy to hear from people who are in possession of relevant information, documentation or artefacts,” he added.Mr Shanahan can be contacted on 087 2333457 or at eoin.shanahan3@mail.dcu.ie.Doonbeg GAA grounds is named after Shanahan and McNamara, who were members of the club and are buried in the Republican plot in Doonbeg Cemetery.Shanahan was born at Ocean View, Doughmore, Doonbeg, on October 28, 1896. He was the oldest of a family of nine – six boys and three girls. He received his early education at the Clohanes National School and later attended the Kilrush Christian Brothers.McNamara (Doonbeg Company) was appointed chief of the IRA Police for the Third Battalion in early 1920. As a tribute to the efficiency with which he carried out the duties of this position, he was promoted to the rank of brigade chief of police. In addition, he became a member of the Flying Column, formed in the summer of 1920.